CLASS SITE: Mr Waugh's Year 10 English - Future Dystopia

Metaphors

How does Shakespeare use language to convey his ideas about fate in Act 1 Scene 4 of Romeo and Juliet?

Shakespeare uses metaphor to convey his idea that Romeo is controlled by a higher power, like God. He does this having Romeo refer to himself as a vessel which is being captained by God. “He that hath steerage of my course, direct my sail.” This proves that Shakespeare is referring to God because the captain is helmsman of a ship who directs its course. Romeo has decided, in spite of his misgivings, to take the risk of following his fate.